BUSINESS

Ohio farmers face opposition to potential solar leases

PUBLISHED Apr 13, 2026, 10:05 AM ET

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Sources: 4

Center 100%

Sources: 4

CANFIELD, Ohio — Farmer Wayne Greier sought to lease part of his land for a solar farm that would have paid about $540,000 annually, but local officials blocked the project in 2023 under state law, and Greier subsequently sold a portion of his property to cover medical debt. Trumbull County recorder documents show developers signed 31 lease agreements from September 2022 through March 2026 across multiple townships, and some renewals were filed in 2026; local leaders and landowners continue to debate zoning rules, tax implications and job prospects as similar proposals emerge.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

September 2022: Solar developers begin signing lease agreements in Trumbull County.
2023: Local officials block a proposed solar farm on Wayne Greier’s land under Ohio law.
Post-2023: Greier sells part of his land to cover medical debt after the blocked deal.
Renewals and additional filings occur through early 2026, showing ongoing developer interest.
March 2026: Records show a total of 31 leases across several townships with multiple companies.

News Intelligence

Solar leases could bring income to Ohio landowners like Wayne Greier. But local rules can block these deals, leading to financial hardship. If you own land, consider checking local zoning laws and potential solar lease opportunities.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 4
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 4

Who Benefited

Solar developers and participating landowners gained access to steady lease revenue, and communities cited potential tax revenue and job creation from proposed projects.

Who Impacted

Farmer Wayne Greier lost a blocked 2023 lease that would have paid about $540,000 annually, forcing him to sell part of his land to cover medical debt.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 4
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 4
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Solar developers and participating landowners gained access to steady lease revenue, and communities cited potential tax revenue and job creation from proposed projects.

Who Impacted

Farmer Wayne Greier lost a blocked 2023 lease that would have paid about $540,000 annually, forcing him to sell part of his land to cover medical debt.